The AFC Wild Card matchup is set for the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Houston Texans on January 12 at Acrisure Stadium, kicking off at 8:15 p.m. ET.
This season, the Texans have shown strength on defense, allowing only 327 yards per game, the best in the NFL. Their offense, however, ranks 18th with an average of 327 total yards. On the flip side, the Steelers score about 23.4 points per game (15th) while conceding 22.8 (17th).
Game Details
- Date and Time: January 12, 2026, 8:15 p.m. ET
- Location: Acrisure Stadium, Pittsburgh, PA
- Broadcast: ABC/ESPN
- Streaming: FOX One + ESPN Bundle
Head-to-Head
In their last two meetings, the Steelers and Texans are tied 1-1. Pittsburgh has managed to score a total of 40 points while allowing just 36.
Texans’ Key Stats
- Passing Yards: 218.1 per game, ranking 14th.
- Rushing Yards: 108.9 per game, putting them 22nd.
- Turnover Margin: Houston boasts a +17 turnover margin, which is second-best in the league, forcing 29 turnovers while giving up just 12.
C.J. Stroud is a standout for Houston, throwing for 3,041 yards, with 19 touchdowns and 8 interceptions. Nico Collins has also made a name for himself with 1,117 receiving yards and six touchdowns.
Steelers’ Key Stats
- Passing Yards: 202.4 per game (22nd).
- Rushing Yards: 103.3 (26th).
- Turnover Margin: The Steelers have a +12 turnover margin, placing them fourth in the NFL.
Aaron Rodgers, in his first season with the Steelers, has thrown for 3,322 yards with 24 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. Jaylen Warren adds to the team’s ground game with 958 rushing yards.
Recent Performance and Insights
Both teams have shown contrasting approaches on offense but share a robust defense. For example, the Texans’ pass defense is ranked 6th in the league, allowing just 183.5 yards. In contrast, the Steelers’ defense struggles more, ranking 28th with 243.9 yards allowed through the air.
Many fans are buzzing on social media about the game, with discussions around which defense will prevail. Some experts believe the Texans, with their defensive prowess, might have the edge if they can contain the Steelers’ passing game.
As the playoffs approach, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The teams are both looking to secure their spot for a deeper run, making this matchup one to watch closely.
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